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In the Nigerian political landscape, few politicians command as much cross-regional respect as Dr. Sule Lamido. His Political career spans over forty years. It has been Nationalistic and, Patriotic, as he always present himself as a true democrat.
Lamido’s political philosophy is rooted in the belief that power belongs to the people, a conviction he has championed since his days in the House of Representatives during the Second Republic (1979–1983).
When he served the country as member House of Representatives during the second Republic, as a Governor of Jigawa State, and a former minister of Foreign Affairs, his democratic credentials were overly seen.
Dr. Lamido has a long history of public service, with notable contributions to Nigerian politics. He is so far, the most notable politician that has kept his loyalty to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). These are undeniable facts.
Although politics is often characterized by nuances and trade-offs, yet, his stance is always towards public interest. Dr. Lamido has remained one of the founding fathers who has never crossed to another party. He has been very consistent and loyal to the party that gave him the opportunity to serve his country.
As a leader and in a party that’s currently facing numerous existential challenges, Dr. Sule Lamido may be navigating the challenges of party politics, coalition-building, and strategic alliances. Yet, all his decisions, dedications, and patriotic actions are always aimed at strengthening the PDP and building a stronger political party that can revamp as a strong political platform for the country. Since the time of PDP’s leadership of the country and now as an opposition political party, Dr. Lamido has never veered off.
Of recent, he has been calling for reconciliation among PDP’s faithfuls, emphasizing the need for extending a handshake to Mr. Nyesome Wike, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who is mostly perceived as a “cog in the wheel” of party’s progress, for his perceived “anti party” activities.
Some of these Lamido’s decisions may appear contradictory or confusing to some, but a careful scrutiny would reveal how deep down they are driven by a deeper understanding of the political landscape of the country and nationalism. Dr. Lamido is known for his commitment to democratic principles, social justice, and national progress, hence in whatever political alignment or realignment, one will figure him out, national interest must be his driving force.
Recently, he was also quoted to have said in a newspaper interview that, he was ready to meet with President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The statement would look controversial, or even a sell out, however, in the final analysis, it’s devoid of parochialism, vested or personal interest. It’s just a move to enhance the country’s democratic growth, progress, unity, and development of the country, and never a sell out.
That’s why, when evaluating public figures like Dr Sule Lamido, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced perspective, acknowledging both his achievements as an outstanding politician and the challenges of ensuring a united party as a strong opposition and in the protection of the interest of the commonman. By doing so, we can foster a more informed and nuanced discussion about Lamido’s politics and leadership.
His commitment to national unity remains a cornerstone of his identity, and his resolve to remain and work assiduously for PDP is unquestionable.
As a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Lamido had been playing crucial role in the restoration of PDP as a party for the commonman. His national profile is significant, and as a person glaringly concerned in reconciliation rather than someone who want to destroy, his action has clearly solidified his reputation as a “builder.” History will no doubt, remember him as a builder and often point to Lamido’s three key strengths: his impact as a most profound politician, his patriotism and nationalism and a protector of the commonman.
That’s how, in the eyes of his supporters, Dr. Lamido’s approach to political issues, his principles, recalibration and alignment sets him apart with other politicians. His rare combination of vision, empathy and leadership style is defined by distinct pillars of inclusivity that embraces diverse ethnic and regional perspective; a vision that sets long-term goals for the people; and his resilience that maintains a vocal stance.
In an era of political fluidity in the country where politicians with loose principles easily jump the ship, Dr. Sule Lamido has consistently remained as a steady reminder and a pillar that demonstrates how principled leadership and democratic values are the only true drivers of meaningful change.
Now that the nation knows the value of this Great Democrat, who believes power belongs to the people; his credentials as a nationalist, as a patriot, and a defender of the commonman who always advocates for peace and development of the nation, will remain as a key political figure whose leadership style will always set him aside with others.
Check his profile; Dr. Sule Lamido has spent forty years in politics proving he is both a Nationalist and a Democrat. No dispute about that.
Dr. Mago contributed this piece from Dutse